Written by: Wolfgang Bernhardt
Article source: JOY! Magazine
George Mwaura is the second of seven siblings. His older sister passed away from pneumonia at an early age. The remaining six children lived with their parents in three shacks in Mathare, a slum area with an estimated population of 500 000 people in Nairobi, Kenya. George’s parents lived in one shack, the four girls in another, and George and his brother shared the third.
A troubled home environment
George’s father worked as a painter, and his brothers took on similar work in the area. There was frequent conflict between them. George’s mother stayed at home with the children and supplemented her husband’s irregular income by selling vegetables at a small kiosk. However, money was often scarce, and the children frequently went hungry. His father struggled with alcohol addiction. Late at night, after drinking, he would return home and argue with George’s mother. Whenever George heard his mother screaming, he would rush to their shack to try and stop the fight.
George speaking to boys at a recent camp
Facing barriers to education
George realised that education was essential for building a meaningful life. After completing primary school, however, his father told him there was no money for high school. For two years, George lived on the streets with other children. Their favourite pastime was playing pool, and they often competed in tournaments where spectators bet on the outcome. George became quite skilled and was often selected to compete. Any prize money was given to his parents for necessities.
Discovering faith
Though George’s father did not attend church, he insisted that his children go. George listened intently to the teachings and began reading the Bible. One day, he came across the verse, “Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see” (Heb 11:1). He also read, “It is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him” (Heb 11:6).
A prayer answered
George began to wonder, “Does God really hear my prayers? Can He send me to high school?” Just three days later, while playing with his friends, a man approached him and asked, “Would you like to go to high school?” George answered without hesitation: “YES!” The man left without another word. A few days later, the same man visited George’s home. His son, Gideon, who knew George, wanted to attend high school with him. Gideon was two years younger and about to finish primary school. Although George’s father was too proud to admit he could not afford the fees, he agreed to send George to school with Gideon the following year. Somehow, the family managed to gather the funds, and the two boys became close friends, walking to school together every day. Occasionally, George’s pool winnings helped ease the financial strain. Grateful for God’s provision, George began sharing his faith with his friends, and they studied the Bible together during school breaks.
Mathare slum, Nairobi
Poor facilities, new opportunities
The school George attended was poorly equipped. Around this time, George was inspired by the book Think Big by Dr Ben Carson. He discovered Sunflower Academy, a private school about 8 km away with better facilities but higher fees. George decided to apply. To his amazement, he was accepted.
Trusting God to provide
George kept the news of his acceptance secret until Christmas Eve, trusting that God would provide the fees – equivalent to R8000. When he finally told his family, they panicked. George, however, continued to pray.
Divine provision through work
At the time, George was doing part-time work for a friend’s father. He shared his financial struggles with him. The man needed a block of flats painted and, knowing that George’s father was a painter with a drinking problem, he agreed to give him the job – on the condition that George would supervise the project. They finished the work in January and were paid R3500. George and his family used the money to try and enrol him in school, but the fees were still insufficient. Fortunately, George’s cousin, who worked for the Nairobi municipality, knew the school’s bursar. She guaranteed that the outstanding fees would be paid in instalments, and George was accepted. His grandmother generously paid most of the remaining school fees for the rest of his education.
George with his grandmother
A growing faith
George loved his time at Sunflower Academy. He started leading Bible studies, which grew in popularity. The headmaster allowed them to use the chapel for their gatherings, which became a vibrant space for worship and prayer. After finishing school, George volunteered with Campus Crusade for Christ, working with a team that discipled students. He was introduced to J-Life. Through J-Life, George was offered a learnership at Home Ground Church in Westville, Durban, where he pursued a theology degree.
Changing lives
Over the past 14 years, George has dedicated his life to working with young people, addressing the epidemic of fatherlessness. He recently founded Isiseko Imara – meaning firm foundations – based on 1 Peter 5:10, “The God of all grace … will make you strong, firm, and steadfast.” Isiseko Imara is transforming the narrative around fatherhood by mentoring young men and equipping them with the skills to become present, purposeful fathers. Through programmes that tackle issues like gender-based violence, unemployment, addiction, and cultural challenges, the organisation prepares men to become engaged, caring fathers. The organisation uses whole-life coaching, mentorship, sports, camps, job readiness training, and skills development to help young people flourish. It also supports existing fathers, encouraging them to be intentional providers who actively care for their families. Email george@isisekoimara.co.za.
This article is featured in the December issue of JOY! Magazine, which is now on sale nationwide! Pick up your copy from any leading supermarket, or read a digital version of this issue here: https://joygifts.co.za/product/joy-magazine-december-issue-2024/
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Date published: 02/01/2025
Wolfgang Bernhardt – advisor to rural communities in KwaZulu-Natal on setting up income-generating projects. Email bernhardtwl@gmail.com
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